Why was the NNCO established?
The NNCO was established to facilitate the successful implementation of the NNI, which was launched in 2001. The need for a coordinated effort was identified to avoid duplication of efforts, leverage resources efficiently, and promote a unified strategy for advancing
nanotechnology research and development. The NNCO helps in aligning the goals of different stakeholders and ensuring that advancements in nanotechnology are effectively translated into societal benefits.
Coordination: It coordinates the nanotechnology activities of the various federal agencies that are part of the NNI.
Policy Advising: It provides policy advice and recommendations to the
White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) on issues related to nanotechnology.
Outreach: The NNCO conducts outreach activities to engage and inform the public, industry, and academia about the latest developments and opportunities in nanotechnology.
Reporting: It prepares annual reports on the progress of the NNI, summarizing key achievements and identifying future priorities.
Facilitation: The NNCO organizes workshops, meetings, and conferences to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
How does the NNCO support research and development?
The NNCO supports research and development by facilitating communication and collaboration among federal agencies, providing strategic direction, and ensuring that funding is effectively allocated to priority areas. It also helps in identifying emerging trends and gaps in nanotechnology research, thereby guiding agencies to focus on promising areas that can lead to significant breakthroughs.
What role does the NNCO play in commercialization?
Commercialization is a critical aspect of the NNCO’s mandate. The office works closely with industry partners to accelerate the transition of nanotechnology innovations from the lab to the market. This involves supporting
technology transfer initiatives, providing guidance on regulatory issues, and fostering public-private partnerships that can drive economic growth and competitiveness.
How does the NNCO engage with the public and international community?
The NNCO places a strong emphasis on public engagement and international collaboration. It conducts educational outreach to raise awareness about the potential benefits and risks of nanotechnology. Additionally, the NNCO collaborates with international organizations to promote global standards, share best practices, and address common challenges in the field of nanotechnology.
Establishing a robust framework for interagency collaboration on nanotechnology research and development.
Launching successful public engagement initiatives, such as the
Nano.gov website, which serves as a comprehensive resource for information on nanotechnology.
Organizing high-impact workshops and conferences that have facilitated knowledge exchange and collaboration among stakeholders.
Supporting the development of
regulatory frameworks and guidelines that ensure the safe and responsible development of nanotechnology.
What are the future priorities for the NNCO?
Looking ahead, the NNCO aims to continue its efforts in fostering innovation and addressing societal challenges through nanotechnology. Future priorities include enhancing collaboration with industry to drive commercialization, addressing ethical and environmental concerns associated with nanotechnology, and expanding international partnerships to ensure a global approach to nanotechnology research and development.
